cherry cake

Cherry Cake: A Delicious Choice for Any Occasion

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 12

The story of the cherry cake is filled with flavor and nostalgia. It is a dessert that reminds us of the summers spent with loved ones, when cherries were at their peak, and their enticing aroma filled the kitchen. This cake combines the juicy sweetness of cherries with the fluffy texture of an airy sponge, resulting in a dessert that will delight everyone, from children to grandparents.

Necessary ingredients:
- 6 fresh eggs (preferably from free-range hens)
- 250 g sugar (for a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount)
- 250 g flour (wheat flour is ideal, but you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a richer taste)
- 7 tablespoons of oil (sunflower oil is the most common, but you can use olive oil for a distinct flavor)
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar (or you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a more intense flavor)
- 1 pinch of salt (helps balance the sweetness)
- 100 g ground walnuts (optional, but adds a crunchy texture)
- Fresh or frozen cherries (about 400 g, pitted)
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Preparing the cherry cake:

Step 1: Separating the eggs
Start by carefully separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure the bowls are clean and dry to achieve a good foam from the egg whites. In a large bowl, beat the yolks with the 7 tablespoons of oil and a pinch of salt until you obtain a smooth and creamy mixture.

Step 2: Beating the egg whites
In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer until frothy. Gradually add the sugar (250 g) and vanilla sugar, continuing to mix until you obtain a firm and glossy foam. A useful trick is to use a stainless steel or glass bowl to beat the egg whites, as they do not retain fats and help you achieve a better foam.

Step 3: Combining the ingredients
Gradually fold the beaten yolks into the egg white foam. Use a spatula to gently mix, being careful not to deflate the foam. Then, sprinkle in the flour, mixing gently to avoid lumps. Finally, you can add the ground walnuts for an extra texture and flavor.

Step 4: Baking the cake
Prepare a baking tray (about 30x40 cm) greased with a little oil and dusted with flour or lined with baking paper. Pour the mixture into the tray, leveling it evenly. Arrange the cherries on top, spreading them evenly across the surface.

Step 5: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray inside. Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden and passes the toothpick test (when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean).

Step 6: Serving
Once the cake has cooled, you can decorate it with powdered sugar for an elegant appearance. It can be served plain or with vanilla ice cream, which will perfectly complement the tartness of the cherries. You can also add a chocolate sauce for a delicious contrast.

Nutritional benefits:
The cherry cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and have anti-inflammatory properties. Combined with walnuts, which provide essential fatty acids and proteins, this cake can be a dessert that won't drastically affect your diet. With an estimated caloric content of 210 kcal per serving, it is a healthier choice compared to many other desserts.

Possible variations:
- You can add other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or raspberries, for a different version.
- Replace the walnuts with ground almonds for a more delicate flavor.
- If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of sugar or use natural sweeteners.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned cherries?
Yes, but make sure to drain them well; otherwise, the batter may become soggy.
2. How can I prevent the cherries from sinking to the bottom?
A trick is to lightly coat them in flour before adding them to the batter, which will help them stay suspended.
3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it is recommended to cut it into individual portions before freezing for easier consumption.

This cherry cake is not just a dessert, but also a way to gather the family around the table, to create memories, and to savor the simple joys of life together. Prepare it with love, add a touch of creativity, and enjoy every bite!